Comparing two types of advance directive forms for ease of use

Comparing the Stanford Letter Project Form to Traditional Advance Directives

Not applicable Interventional Stanford University · NCT02799537

This study is testing which of two advance directive forms is easier to use for adults who can read and write in English or Spanish, to help them better communicate their healthcare wishes.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment1000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorStanford University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Stanford, California)
Trial IDNCT02799537 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the usability of two advance directive forms: the Stanford Letter Project Form and traditional advance directives, available in both English and Spanish. Adult participants who can read and write in these languages will be randomly assigned to one of the two forms and will provide feedback on their preferences and understanding. The study will collect data until a total of 1,000 participants is reached, after which the results will be analyzed and published. The focus is on improving advance care planning and ensuring that patients can effectively communicate their healthcare preferences.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old who can read and write in English or Spanish.

Not a fit: Patients under 18 years old will not benefit from this study as they are excluded from participation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the process of advance care planning, making it easier for patients to express their healthcare wishes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored advance directives, but this specific comparison of usability between two formats is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Over 18 years of age

Exclusion Criteria:

* Under 18

Where this trial is running

Stanford, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Advance DirectivesPalliative Caresupportive carepalliative caregoals of careadvance care planningadvance directives
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.